Suffolk Family Carers Awards celebrates those who go the extra mile

A Red Lodge receptionist and Stowmarket community group were among those recognised at the first Suffolk Family Carers Awards this month.

Kim Mizell, who is a receptionist at Reynards GP Surgery in the village, was presented with the Carers Recognition Health Award, after helping a young girl cope with her mother’s serious illness.

The Stowmarket & District Lions bagged the Carers Recognition Young Peoples Service Award for their continuous support and fund-raising for the organisation over many years.

Rob Hale, from the Lions, said: "We are absolutely thrilled to receive the Young Peoples Service Award and it is extremely rewarding to be so accepted by the Young and Young Adult carers.

“It feels a real privilege to be part of these activities and to be nominated and receive an award has been fantastic.”

Nearly 200 guests attended the event on Thursday, June 7, including representatives from GP practices, community organisations, voluntary sector partners and businesses which support family carers.

Kirsten Alderson, chief executive of Suffolk Family Carers, said: “We want these awards to inspire individuals, organisations and business to find out more and unedrstand how they can better support family carers.

“I feel privileged to have met and worked with some of the award winners, without the support of these amazing individuals family carers’ lives would be even more challenging.”